Understanding the Process Behind Property Inspections

Whenever you're considering buying/selling a home or any other type of real estate, a property inspection will most likely be part of the transaction process. During property inspections, a trained professional will check the property for any signs of a pest infestation. Common infestations include termites, cockroaches, ants and rodents.

Effective property inspections prevent the new owner of the property from inheriting real estate that has been damaged by termites, or infiltrated with various rodents. You can expect the following activities to be carried out during these inspections.

Checking for damage and debris

The first thing the inspector will do is check for any visible damage and debris to wooden structures. Technicians will often use a helmet that has a light attached to it to check deep inside cracks and crevices. They will look underneath kitchen cabinets, on the side of carpets, and underneath doorways.

If they notice any wood shavings or significant damage to wooden structures, this might be a sign of a termite infestation in the home. The inspector will note down these signs in their report for the buyer to consider.

Checking for infiltration points

Pests often come through cracks and holes that are present in windows, doors and walls. During property inspections, the pest technician will closely examine the property to see how many of these weak points are present.

Homes that have multiple cracks and holes in vulnerable areas are more likely to face the risk of a pest infestation. Future inhabitants of such homes will have to make sure that they either repair those crevices or take active steps to prevent infestations (such as not leaving food out in the open).

Analyzing existing waste disposal techniques

Poor waste disposal in both homes and commercial buildings can be a sign of a potential infestation. Properties that leave waste lying in and around the area can easily attract cockroaches and rodents such as mice and rats.

The inspector will ensure that waste is put into garbage containers that are clean and properly covered.

Presence of mulch and vegetation in the yard

Mulch and vegetation can attract both ants and termites. If the property is using mulch to improve the growth of vegetation such as grass, the mulch should be properly stored at a reasonable distance from the home and not overused in the yard.

Termites can easily cross into the yard and make their way inside the property. During property inspections, technicians will also have a look outside the home and on the yard as well. Contact a residential or commercial pest control service for more info.